About Topamax

Topamax is the brand name for topiramate medication. It is only available through a prescription written by a doctor. Most doctors prescribe Topamax to treat neurological conditions. It has been available since 1995, and despite its side effects is proven safe for most individuals.

Identification

• Topamax is a circular pill imprinted with "OMN" on one side, and the milligram size on the opposite side. The 25 mg pill is cream colored, the 50 mg pill is beige, the 100 mg pill is yellow and the 200 mg pill is pink.

Significance

• Topamax is a prescription medication used to treat migraine headaches before they start. Topamax is also used to treat neurological pain, and it is prescribed to treat seizures associated with epilepsy.

Considerations

• Because of the drowsiness side effect associated with Topamax, many people on a single daily dose take the medication at night. Weight loss is often a side effect of Topamax, but underweight individuals need to make sure to consume enough calories to sustain their weight.

Dosage

• The maximum dosage of Topamax is 800 mg a day. Most patients require far less than this, but dosage depends heavily on the individual's tolerance to the medication and the severity of the underlying illness.

Warning

• The side effects from Topamax can be severe. The most common side effects are numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, weight loss, fatigue and cognitive difficulties. Most patients tolerate the side effects and continue taking Topamax. Never stop taking a medication without discussing it with a doctor.